Hiking in Lebanon: A Trend for Stress Relief and Environmental Awareness
As the economic crisis in Lebanon continues to affect the daily lives of its citizens, many are seeking refuge in nature to escape the stress and hardships of their situation.
The trend of hiking as a way to destress has been on the rise in Lebanon for over a decade, with young people forming groups and associations to organize outings and adventures.
The Lebanese Mountain Trail Association, established in 2007 with funding from the US Agency for International Development, has developed a 154-kilometer trail that stretches across the country from north to south, passing through 76 villages and reaching altitudes ranging from 600 to 2,000 meters above sea level.
The association organizes two major hikes each year, attracting both locals and foreigners who come to Lebanon specifically for the event.
The increased interest in hiking has brought attention to environmental issues, which is a welcome development for officials.
"What is equivalent in importance to Lebanon's biodiversity is sustainable economic activity," said Nasser Yassin, the caretaker environment minister.
"Despite the losses suffered by forests last year, the forest cover in Lebanon is still relatively good but we lack proper management in this field." The popularity of hiking has also led to an increase in the number of sportswear stores selling hiking gear, making it more accessible for people to participate in the activity.
"Hiking flourished during the COVID-19 pandemic as Lebanese people turned to nature, making it a trend," said Omar Sakr, executive director of the Lebanese Mountain Trail Association.
"The increasing number of people taking up hiking is evident from the proliferation of sportswear stores selling hiking gear." Hikers are advised to wear comfortable clothing appropriate for the conditions, including sturdy shoes to prevent slipping and injuries on slopes and hills.
Carrying one or two walking sticks to aid balance and support, especially in high, mountainous areas, is also recommended.
The trend of hiking is not only a way to escape the economic crisis, but it is also contributing to raising awareness of environmental issues, enhancing the concept of eco and rural As the snow melts on the peaks of Lebanon's mountains, hikers flock to trails that wind through breathtaking waterfalls and protected areas.
The pastime has become increasingly popular, with hikers of all ages seeking the peace and tranquility that comes from immersing oneself in nature.
One such hiker is Ghada, who has been scaling the mountains for over 20 years.
"Seeing the colors of nature brings relaxation and peace to the soul and reduces stress," she says.
"It is a process of relaxation in nature that heals us and helps us navigate our lives with minimal obstacles." Mona, another avid hiker, agrees.
"With every step you take, you find yourself amazed by an ancient tree, the unfamiliar chirping of a bird, a flower that grows among rocks, and the sound of fresh waterfalls transforming into rivers and streams," she says.
"I have formed friendships with people I meet every weekend.
We have become like a family, cooperating and advising each other to avoid injuries." The boom in hiking has not only brought enjoyment to those who participate, but also economic benefits to the communities along the trails.
The Darb Akkar association, for example, has evolved from organizing hiking trips to undertaking environmental and scientific work.
Its members have even documented rare types of orchids, tulips, and wild Basalt flowers found on the slopes of the Qurnat Es-Sawda mountains.
However, the increasing number of people who are descending on sometimes fragile rural environments carries some risks, especially if activities are not well planned and managed.
"Sometimes chaos arises due to the increasing interest in this type of activity," says Sakr, who is working to develop sustainable trails.
"This chaos is manifested in the absence of studying the environmental impact of the trails walked by the hikers and ensuring their safety." To address this, Antonine University in Lebanon has launched a diploma program in mountain guidance and outdoor activities.
The program aims to train guides and ensure that the tourism benefits and economic opportunities are developed responsibly.
In conclusion, hiking in Lebanon has become a popular pastime that brings people closer
The Lebanese Mountain Trail Association, established in 2007 with funding from the US Agency for International Development, has developed a 154-kilometer trail that stretches across the country from north to south, passing through 76 villages and reaching altitudes ranging from 600 to 2,000 meters above sea level.
The association organizes two major hikes each year, attracting both locals and foreigners who come to Lebanon specifically for the event.
The increased interest in hiking has brought attention to environmental issues, which is a welcome development for officials.
"What is equivalent in importance to Lebanon's biodiversity is sustainable economic activity," said Nasser Yassin, the caretaker environment minister.
"Despite the losses suffered by forests last year, the forest cover in Lebanon is still relatively good but we lack proper management in this field." The popularity of hiking has also led to an increase in the number of sportswear stores selling hiking gear, making it more accessible for people to participate in the activity.
"Hiking flourished during the COVID-19 pandemic as Lebanese people turned to nature, making it a trend," said Omar Sakr, executive director of the Lebanese Mountain Trail Association.
"The increasing number of people taking up hiking is evident from the proliferation of sportswear stores selling hiking gear." Hikers are advised to wear comfortable clothing appropriate for the conditions, including sturdy shoes to prevent slipping and injuries on slopes and hills.
Carrying one or two walking sticks to aid balance and support, especially in high, mountainous areas, is also recommended.
The trend of hiking is not only a way to escape the economic crisis, but it is also contributing to raising awareness of environmental issues, enhancing the concept of eco and rural As the snow melts on the peaks of Lebanon's mountains, hikers flock to trails that wind through breathtaking waterfalls and protected areas.
The pastime has become increasingly popular, with hikers of all ages seeking the peace and tranquility that comes from immersing oneself in nature.
One such hiker is Ghada, who has been scaling the mountains for over 20 years.
"Seeing the colors of nature brings relaxation and peace to the soul and reduces stress," she says.
"It is a process of relaxation in nature that heals us and helps us navigate our lives with minimal obstacles." Mona, another avid hiker, agrees.
"With every step you take, you find yourself amazed by an ancient tree, the unfamiliar chirping of a bird, a flower that grows among rocks, and the sound of fresh waterfalls transforming into rivers and streams," she says.
"I have formed friendships with people I meet every weekend.
We have become like a family, cooperating and advising each other to avoid injuries." The boom in hiking has not only brought enjoyment to those who participate, but also economic benefits to the communities along the trails.
The Darb Akkar association, for example, has evolved from organizing hiking trips to undertaking environmental and scientific work.
Its members have even documented rare types of orchids, tulips, and wild Basalt flowers found on the slopes of the Qurnat Es-Sawda mountains.
However, the increasing number of people who are descending on sometimes fragile rural environments carries some risks, especially if activities are not well planned and managed.
"Sometimes chaos arises due to the increasing interest in this type of activity," says Sakr, who is working to develop sustainable trails.
"This chaos is manifested in the absence of studying the environmental impact of the trails walked by the hikers and ensuring their safety." To address this, Antonine University in Lebanon has launched a diploma program in mountain guidance and outdoor activities.
The program aims to train guides and ensure that the tourism benefits and economic opportunities are developed responsibly.
In conclusion, hiking in Lebanon has become a popular pastime that brings people closer
